Page 42 of The Viscount's Silent Pugilist
“On to our next topic,” Lady Siddons said.
Genevieve collapsed onto her chair, and it was several minutes before her heart rate returned to normal. She was so nervous that she struggled to concentrate. However, through the rushing sounds in her ears and the pounding of her heart, she caught bits and pieces of the conversation.
From what she could gather, the duke’s attempts to discuss changes in coverture laws had met with considerable skepticism. However, he had persuaded a few of the younger peers of its importance, so overall, he was making progress, although it was still much too slow for his aunt’s liking. Discussions about expanding educational opportunities for women had a bit more support, although the plan would require individuals who desired to invest in such initiatives.
“On to our next topic,” Lady Siddons said. “Did everyone read our essay,On the Equality of the Sexes,by Judith Sargent Murray?”
“I did,” Lady Hillcaster said.
“And now you are going to elucidate us all on what balderdash it is,” Bridget said.
Lady Hillcaster frowned. “Actually…I agree with the author.”
Lady Davenport scowled at Bridget. “Go on, Lucille,” she said.
“I am truly sorry, Lady Hillcaster,” Bridget said. “That was rather rude of me. But usually, you are quite vocal about your traditional ideals, which contradict what Murray espouses.”
“I am changing my views on things,” Lady Lucille Hillcaster declared, her chin high.
“As am I,” Lady Whitehall said. “I now believe that women are only seen as inferior because we have limited educationalopportunities. If we had the same opportunities as men, women could excel in science, medicine, law, and philosophy.”
“Here, here,” the ladies chorused.
“May I interject?” the beautiful Lady Milton asked.
“Go on, Celeste,” Lady Siddons said.
“I have not yet read the essay, although I will as soon as possible.”
Lord help Genevieve because envy devoured her at the sound of Lady Milton’s sensual, cultured voice.
“Mayhap we could have women’s classes right here. We could offer subjects such as law and business. We could hire the best teachers. I have the funds to invest in such a project.”
Lawks!Not only was the woman beautiful, but she was also benevolent. And, apparently, wealthy as Croesus.
“How generous, Celeste,” Lady Siddons said. “The Silk Knuckles Academy for Enterprising Ladies. Josie and Franny, what are your thoughts?”
“Mayhap,” Josie said. “Why don’t we come up with some ideas?”
“You may not be aware, but my late mother was a governess before she married my father,” Franny said. “Papa and I are passionate about supporting educational opportunities for females. I think the idea has potential. I agree with Josie. Let’s come up with ideas, and I will present them to my father.”
“I am sure Calder will be amenable,” Lady Davenport said, her soft gaze betraying her romantic inclinations for the coach.
Ladies called out suggestions for The Silk Knuckles School, and the room buzzed with side conversations as they discussed Lady Milton’s proposal.
Genevieve had so many ideas to contribute that, unfortunately, for now, remained stuck in her head. If only she had a voice, because then she could help instruct the young ladies. Despite the unfortunate circumstances surroundingteaching her siblings, she had enjoyed being a pseudo-governess. But alas, here she was, a mute beggar woman living off the charity of others as she tried to become a prizefighter.
“Are you recording all of the suggestions?” Lady Siddons asked Bridget.
“Every single one,” Bridget said. “’Tis such a wonderful proposal.”
“I suppose that is all for today,” Lady Siddons said.
Bridget held her pen high. “I hereby motion for this meeting of the Sisterhood of Harpies, Hoydens, and Harridans to conclude. Do I have a second?”
From beside Genevieve, Lady Milton choked on a biscuit. Meanwhile, Lady Siddons and Lady Davenport both glared at Bridget.
Bridget harrumphed. “Botheration. I hereby motion for this meeting of the Ladies’ Autonomy League to conclude. Do I have a second?”
